Braves drop both games in doubleheader against Nationals

Magic number remains at 4 for Atlanta to win NL East crown

Washington Nationals' Bryce Harper (34) scores as Atlanta Braves catcher Gerald Laird (11) waits for the throw during the second inning of the second game During Tuesday's doubleheader in Washington, D.C. - photo by Alex Brandon

0918Braves1 — Washington Nationals' Bryce Harper (34) scores as Atlanta Braves catcher Gerald Laird (11) waits for the throw during the second inning of the second game During Tuesday's doubleheader in Washington, D.C. - photo by Alex Brandon

WASHINGTON — The Atlanta Braves have run far ahead of their NL East foes this season. Now they’re stumbling to the finish. The Washington Nationals broke open a one-run game with three a three-run eighth off reliever Jordan Walden and defeated the Braves 4-0 Tuesday night for a sweep of the day-night doubleheader.

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